Doug Ford Calls Federal Auto Strategy “Great,” Says Ontario Will Help Deliver It

Ontario Premier Doug Ford has publicly backed the federal government’s new auto strategy, calling it “great” and affirming that Ontario will be part of its implementation following a meeting with Mark Carney, Canada’s federal representative leading economic strategy, and Mélanie Joly, the federal minister responsible for innovation and industry policy. The remarks came at a press event at Queen’s Park on Monday, where Ford appeared alongside Joly after their discussions about supporting manufacturing jobs and coordinating future investments in the auto sector.

Ford’s support marked a notable shift from his earlier criticism of federal trade measures, especially around discussions over electric vehicle imports and tariff arrangements that had previously drawn his ire as potentially harmful to Ontario’s auto industry. In the news conference, Ford thanked Joly for developing the auto strategy and said Ontario is committed to being “part of it,” signalling greater federal–provincial cooperation on industrial and economic priorities.

At the same event, Ford stressed his conditions for supporting broader market access in the auto sector: any companies entering Canada — whether from China, Europe or Asia — should “build the vehicles here, protect the auto sector,” and ensure that parts, technology and high-value development remain rooted within Ontario and Canada. This reflects ongoing concerns from provincial leaders that trade deals and industrial policy should benefit local jobs and supply chains.

Ford’s remarks were delivered against the backdrop of broader federal efforts to strengthen Canada’s manufacturing base amid global competition. Prime Minister Mark Carney’s government has been pressing initiatives aimed at modernising the Canadian economy and attracting investment, including fostering electric vehicle manufacturing and related technologies. Ontario — home to a large proportion of Canada’s auto industry — plays a central role in these discussions, making provincial buy-in a strategically important signal for the federal plan.

While earlier tensions had surfaced over trade and tariff matters, particularly regarding electric vehicle access from China, this latest move suggests a more collaborative posture between the provincial government and federal officials. Ford’s endorsement — framed as part of a “big family” working together — indicates a willingness to align on industrial strategy when Ontario’s priorities are acknowledged within national planning.